Ohio Voters Brave Long Lines and Heavy Rains to Cast Ballots

Strategic Insights -

Ohio voters turned out in record numbers on Election Day, braving heavy rains and long lines to cast their ballots in a presidential election that could be decided by the state's 20 electoral votes. Hundreds of voters waited to cast their ballots in some precincts, with some waiting more than three hours after the polls closed. Democrats were counting on about 1 million new voters registered this year to help Sen. John Kerry win the state, while President Bush narrowly won Ohio's electoral votes in 2000.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ohio voters cast ballots in record numbers, with an estimated 73% of registered voters participating, up from 64% in 2000.
  • Hundreds of voters waited in line for three hours or more to cast their ballots, with some precincts experiencing paper ballot and absentee ballot shortages.
  • Young voters (18-29) turned out in large numbers and solidly supported Sen. John Kerry, while moral values voters supported President Bush.
  • The economy was the top issue for Ohio voters, with Kerry winning four of five votes among those who ranked it as the top issue.
  • Exit polls showed that voters in Ohio were concerned about the economy, moral values, terrorism, and Iraq.
  • The Ohio Democratic Voter Project reported that GOP volunteers acted as note-taking witnesses, matching a Democratic policy, and that there were "quiet" voter challenges throughout the day.
  • A federal judge ruled that voters who did not receive absentee ballots could use other ballots whose validity would be determined later.

Statistics:

  • 73% of Ohio voters cast ballots, up from 64% in 2000. (Source: Ohio state election officials)
  • 1 million new voters were registered in Ohio this year. (Source: Democrats)
  • 20 electoral votes are at stake in Ohio. (Source: None specified)
  • 73% total turnout rate (estimated)
  • 64% voter turnout in 2000 (Source: Ohio state election officials)
  • 1 million new registered voters (Source: Democrats)

Sources:

  • Ohio state election officials
  • Democrats
  • Ohio Democratic Voter Project
  • Federal judge's ruling (no specific source, but mentioned in the article)
  • Wire reports (no specific source, but mentioned in the article)